International (MNN) — Yesterday we talked about the problems of short-term missions and ways to fix them, but what does it take to actually get on a trip? Ken Ivins of AMG International might have some answers.
It starts with a request. Church groups, school groups, or other teams can contact AMG and make a plan, and Ivins said AMG “will do as much or as little as you require.” Trips can be set up in just two months, but Ivins said it’s easier on everyone to start making plans much earlier.
These trips aren’t off-limits to individuals, either. Although some teams are church-specific, there are several open trips available throughout the year.
(Photo courtesy of AMG International)
“We try to design the trip around the group, encourage the group to go through the proper training so that when they hit the field they’re not doing more harm than good,” said Ivins. That means setting up tickets, registering with local governments, and setting up training with AMG workers so team members can be equipped for their particular country. If the team is far from AMG headquarters, face-to-face calls can be set up so the team will be prepared.
“But the heart of each team is the same,” said Ivins. “We want you to go and use what gifts God has given you to step alongside and work with the nationals in reaching their people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Take Guatemala, one of the countries that AMG International has the most presence in. Teams go regularly to minister to over 8,000 children in 30 homes, and their work has not gone unnoticed. The government is helping set up a 31st children’s home, providing the facility and funding as long as AMG can find personnel and establish a curriculum. Other trips visit Uganda, Romania, and more.
Still, it doesn’t take a plane ticket to make a difference. Ivins said, “We just want people to know they can get involved at the very get-go by praying, by giving if you have the financial resources, and by going, seeing firsthand.” AMG needs prayer for “boldness, guidance, and wisdom” for the leadership and nationals involved in radio, medical, and children’s programs.
If you want to experience some of AMG’s work firsthand, click right here.
